U.S. patent number 8,992,393 [Application Number 13/385,972] was granted by the patent office on 2015-03-31 for change of direction machine and method of training therefor.
This patent grant is currently assigned to GRAA Innovations, LLC. The grantee listed for this patent is Gil Reyes. Invention is credited to Gil Reyes.
United States Patent |
8,992,393 |
Reyes |
March 31, 2015 |
Change of direction machine and method of training therefor
Abstract
A change of direction machine provides training for various
muscles and body structures of a user. In one embodiment, the
machine provides focused training for the muscles and body
structures associated with making changes in the body's direction.
The machine may comprise a pivoting arm assembly supported by a
structure. The arm assembly may be configured to provide a
resistance such that when a user engages the arm assembly a
downward resistance may be applied to the user. The user may engage
the arm assembly with his or her upper body and perform training or
exercises involving lifting and lowering the user's body, moving
laterally, or both. The machine may have various adjustable
components to fit a user and to provide the desired resistance to
the user.
Inventors: |
Reyes; Gil (Las Vegas, NV) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Reyes; Gil |
Las Vegas |
NV |
US |
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Assignee: |
GRAA Innovations, LLC (Las
Vegas, NV)
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Family
ID: |
46828920 |
Appl.
No.: |
13/385,972 |
Filed: |
March 15, 2012 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20120238418 A1 |
Sep 20, 2012 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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12858821 |
Aug 18, 2010 |
8663075 |
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61348164 |
May 25, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/100; 482/98;
482/137 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B
23/0405 (20130101); A63B 21/00072 (20130101); A63B
21/055 (20130101); A63B 21/023 (20130101); A63B
21/0615 (20130101); A63B 21/062 (20130101); A63B
21/4047 (20151001); A63B 21/0628 (20151001); A63B
21/0421 (20130101); A63B 21/08 (20130101); A63B
2208/0204 (20130101); A63B 21/0552 (20130101); A63B
23/0227 (20130101); A63B 2023/0411 (20130101); A63B
21/0724 (20130101); A63B 5/00 (20130101); A63B
2225/093 (20130101); A63B 21/4039 (20151001); A63B
2022/003 (20130101); A63B 21/00065 (20130101); A63B
21/4005 (20151001); A63B 23/047 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A63B
21/062 (20060101); A63B 21/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;482/97,121-123,129,130,92-94,98-100,133-138 ;D21/673,692,693 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Other References
Universal, No. 9450 Centurion DVR Leg Squat Machine, Universal
Physical Conditioning Equipment 1985 Catalog, p. 18, 1985. cited by
examiner .
Sorinex, The Hurricane, Power Systems Strength Equipment catalog,
model # 50808-6, pp. 20-21, 2007. cited by examiner .
The Super Calf and Squat Machine from www.jumpusa.com, Nov. 21,
2011. cited by applicant .
Body-Solid Leverage Squat Calf Machine from www.bodysolid.com, Nov.
21, 2011. cited by applicant .
Leverage Squat-Calf Machine from www.powertecfitness.com. cited by
applicant .
International Search Report and Written Opinion of the
International Searching Authority (PCT/US2011/000940). cited by
applicant.
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Primary Examiner: Ginsberg; Oren
Attorney, Agent or Firm: One LLP
Parent Case Text
This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 12/858,821, filed Aug. 18, 2010, now pending, the disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth fully
herein, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/348,164,
filed May 25, 2010, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated
by reference as if set forth fully herein.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An exercise machine comprising: an arm assembly having a
cantilever and a connector bar, the cantilever having a first end
and a second end, the first end of the cantilever being pivotally
attached to the connector bar to define an fixedly variable angle
between them, the second end of the cantilever being configured to
engage one or more shoulders of a user; a support structure is
pivotally connected to the arm assembly about a vertical axis to
provide vertical and horizontal movement of the arm assembly
relative to the support structure, wherein the second end of the
cantilever extends outward from the support structure; and, a
resistance device having a first end and a second end, the first
end connected to the arm assembly and the second end connected to
the support structure; wherein the arm assembly is capable of
simultaneous horizontal and vertical movement relative to the
support structure.
2. The exercise machine of claim 1 further comprising an adjuster
bar attached to the arm assembly to fixedly vary the angle between
the cantilever and the connector bar.
3. The exercise machine of claim 2 further comprising a handle
attached to the second end of the cantilever, wherein activation of
the handle will allow the angle to be varied and deactivation will
fix the angle.
4. The exercise machine of claim 3 further comprising a cable
communicating between the handle and the adjuster bar, wherein
activation of the handle causes the cable to retract a pin from the
adjuster bar.
5. The exercise machine of claim 4 further comprising one or more
range limiters at the second end of the arm assembly, the one or
more range limiters configured to prevent lateral movement of one
or more pads, wherein the one or more pads are rotatably mounted to
the arm assembly at the engagement end.
6. The exercise machine of claim 1 further comprising a calf
block.
7. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein the second end of the
resistance device is connected to a weight stack in the support
structure.
8. An exercise machine comprising: an arm having a first end and
one or more user engagement pads on a second end; a connector bar
pivotally attached to the first end of the arm to provide vertical
movement of the arm relative to the connector bar about the pivotal
attachment; a support structure configured to stabilize the
exercise machine, wherein the support structure is pivotally
connected about a vertical axis to the connector bar to provide
vertical and lateral movement of the connector bar relative to the
support structure, and wherein the arm extends outward from the
support structure; a resistance device connected to the connector
bar to provide resistance against upward vertical movement of the
second end of the arm; wherein the arm is held at an elevated
position by the support structure and the second end of the arm is
moveable laterally and vertically relative to the support
structure; and wherein the angular position of the arm relative to
the connector bar can be fixedly adjusted.
9. The exercise machine of claim 8 wherein the resistance device
has a first end and a second end, the first end attached to the
connector bar and the second end attached to a weight stack in the
support structure.
10. The exercise machine of claim 9 wherein at least one of the
user engagement pads further comprises a pivot which allow a user
engagement pad to pivot relative to a user and engage an upper body
of the user.
11. The exercise machine of claim 10 further comprising one or more
rotating pads at the second end of the arm, the one or more
rotating pads configured to engage the upper body of the user,
wherein the one or more rotating pads are limited from rotating
laterally.
12. The exercise machine of claim 8 further comprising a handle
configured to unlock the arm in angular position relative to the
connector bar when engaged and to lock the relative angular
position when the handle is disengaged.
13. The exercise machine of claim 8 further comprising a calf
block.
14. A method of training a user on a change of direction machine,
the method comprising: engaging an engagement end of a pivoting arm
at a portion of the user's upper body, the pivoting arm configured
to provide resistance to the upper body in a downward direction,
the pivoting arm coupled to and extending outward from a support
structure of the change of direction machine, wherein the pivoting
arm is held at an elevated position by the support structure and
the pivoting arm is capable of simultaneous movement relative to
the support structure laterally and vertically, wherein the
pivoting arm is connected to the support structure by a connector
bar that is pivotally connected to the support structure, and
wherein the elevated position is fixedly adjustable by varying the
position of the pivoting arm to the connector bar; lowering the
upper body to a lowered position by bending at the knees while
resisting the resistance applied to the upper body without moving
the upper body in a forward or backward direction, wherein lowering
the upper body rotates the pivoting arm in a vertical direction;
raising the upper body to a raised position by extending at the
knees and waist to overcome the resistance applied to the upper
body without moving upper body in a forward or backward direction,
wherein raising the upper body rotates the pivoting arm in a
vertical direction; taking a step with a first foot in a lateral
direction; and moving in the lateral direction while lowering the
upper body, wherein moving in the lateral direction rotates the
pivoting arm in a lateral direction.
15. The method of claim 14 further comprising moving laterally
while raising the upper body, wherein moving laterally rotates the
pivoting arm in a lateral direction.
16. The method of claim 14 further comprising moving a second foot
towards the first foot such that the first foot and second foot are
adjacent.
17. The method of claim 14 further comprising: moving laterally in
a first direction while lowering the upper body one or more times;
and moving laterally in a second direction while lowering the upper
body one or more additional times; wherein moving laterally in the
first direction and moving laterally in the second direction
rotates the pivoting arm in a first lateral direction and a second
lateral direction.
18. The method of claim 14 further comprising disengaging a locking
mechanism of the pivoting arm to unlock the pivoting arm relative
to the connector bar.
19. The method of claim 14 further comprising adjusting the
resistance applied to the upper body by changing the amount of
weight on a weight stack.
20. The method of claim 14 wherein the user steps on a calf block.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to exercise equipment and in particular to a
training machine and method therefor.
The squat exercise is an effective and popular exercise for
strengthening the lower body, but not well suited for dynamic
athletic training. In addition, squats employ an up and down motion
which is confined and limiting. Moreover, squats must be carefully
performed because the risk of injury is high. This is especially so
given that squats are typically performed while carrying weights
and the weight is freely supported by the user supporting the
weighted bar across the back of the neck and shoulders.
A number of exercise aids have been developed to reduce the risk of
injury when performing squats. For example, weights used during
squats may be guided by two vertical rails which prevents the
weights from moving forward, sideways, backwards, or dropping too
far. However, this arrangement suffers from several disadvantages.
One such disadvantage is that the vertical rails which support and
guide the bar prevent motion of the bar in any direction but
straight up and straight down. This creates an un-natural motion
for the knee and back, leading to injury or ineffective
exercise.
Another solution is to utilize a human spotter on each end of the
free bar to grab the weight should the lifter lose balance. While
this is one possible solution, it does not prevent injury to the
knees and back and is only as good as the spotters themselves.
Moreover, a spotter is not always available when lifting and the
range of motion for the lifter is still primarily limited to up and
down, although leaning forward or backward is possible, which
increases the chance of injury.
From the discussion that follows, it will become apparent that the
present invention addresses the deficiencies associated with the
prior art while providing numerous additional advantages and
benefits not contemplated or possible with prior art
constructions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The change of direction machine disclosed herein provides unique
training to strengthen and tone various muscles and body structures
of its users. In one or more embodiments, the machine may be
directed to the muscles and body structures of the lower body as
well as the torso or core of a user. As will be described further
below, the machine provides a structure and operation which trains
of the muscles and body structures used in changing the direction
of one's movement, as well as other muscles and body structures.
The machine is highly beneficial in that it can provide resistance
to a user for a wide range of user motions. In addition, the
machine provides safety and convenience improvements over other
exercises and exercise devices.
The change of direction machine may have a variety of
configurations. For instance, in one embodiment the machine may be
an exercise machine comprising an arm assembly having a pivoting
end and an engagement end configured to engage one or more
shoulders of a user, a support structure configured to support the
arm assembly at the pivoting end. The arm assembly may extend
outward from the support structure and be rotatable at the pivoting
end relative to the support structure. It is contemplated that the
exercise machine may also include a pivot at the pivoting end of
the arm assembly. The pivot may be configured to allow the arm
assembly to rotate relative to the support structure in a plurality
of horizontal and vertical directions. It is noted that the arm
assembly may include a locking mechanism configured to engage to
lock the arm assembly in position and to disengage to unlock the
arm assembly.
A resilient resistance device coupled at a first end to the arm
assembly and coupled at a second end to the support structure may
be provided to provide a resistance to the user. A tension adjuster
movable along a length of the arm assembly may be provided as well.
The first end of the resistance device may be coupled to the
tension adjuster to allow resistance provided by the arm assembly
to be adjusted. The tension adjuster may comprise a ratcheting
mechanism configured to move and secure the tension adjuster in
place along the length of the arm assembly.
The exercise machine may comprise one or more pads at the
engagement end of the arm assembly configured to engage one or more
shoulders of the user. The one or more pads are rotatably mounted
to the arm assembly at the engagement end. In these cases, one or
more range limiters may be at the engagement end of the arm
assembly to prevent lateral movement of the one or more pads.
In another embodiment the change of direction machine may be an
exercise machine comprising a pivoting arm configured to provide a
downward resistance to a user, and a support structure configured
to stabilize the exercise machine. The pivoting arm may extend
outward from the support structure, and be held at an elevated
position by the support structure while being rotatable in a
plurality of directions relative to the support structure.
A resilient resistance device having a first end and a second end
may be provided to generate a resistance for the user. The first
end may be attached to the pivoting arm while the second end may be
attached to the support structure. To adjust the tension of the
resistance device, a tension adjuster movable along said pivoting
arm may be included. The first end of the resilient resistance
device may then be attached to said tension adjuster to allow the
tension of the resilient resistance device to be adjusted.
Similar to the above embodiment, this exercise machine may comprise
one or more pads at an engagement end of the pivoting arm
configured to engage an upper body of the user. Alternatively or in
addition, the machine may comprise one or more rotating pads at an
engagement end of the pivoting arm. The one or more rotating pads
may be configured to engage an upper body of the user, while being
limited from rotating laterally.
A locking mechanism configured to engage to lock the arm assembly
in position and to disengage to unlock the arm assembly may also be
provided. It is contemplated that the locking mechanism may
comprise a locking member coupled with the pivoting arm and a stop
coupled with the support structure. The stop may comprise an open
top portion to permit upward movement of the pivoting arm even when
the arm assembly is locked.
A method of training a user on a change of direction machine is
also disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the method may comprise
engaging an engagement end of a pivoting arm assembly at a portion
of the user's upper body, lowering the upper body to a lowered
position by bending at the knees while resisting the resistance
applied to the upper body, and raising the upper body to a raised
position by extending at the knees and waist to overcome the
resistance applied to the upper body. Lowering and raising the
upper body in this manner rotates the pivoting arm assembly in a
vertical direction, and may occur without moving the upper body in
a forward or backward direction so as to prevent injury. The
pivoting arm assembly may be configured to provide a resistance to
the user in a downward direction such that the resistance may be
applied to the user as the upper body is lowered and raised.
It is noted that a locking mechanism of the pivoting arm assembly
may be disengaged to unlock the pivoting arm assembly prior to
using the machine. It is also noted that the method may include
adjusting the resistance of the machine. Where the resistance is
provided by a resistance device attached to a tension adjuster,
such adjustment of resistance may occur by moving the tension
adjuster along the length of the pivoting arm assembly.
The method may include moving laterally while lowering the upper
body. Moving laterally in this manner rotates the pivoting arm
assembly in a horizontal direction allowing the resistance to
continue to be applied to the user during the lateral motion. The
lateral motion may occur in a variety of ways. For example, in one
embodiment moving laterally may entail taking a step with a first
foot in a lateral direction, moving at least the upper body in the
lateral direction while lowering the upper body, and moving a
second foot towards the first foot such that the first foot and
second foot are adjacent. The user may also move in various lateral
directions. For example, the method may comprise moving laterally
in a first direction while lowering the upper body one or more
times, and moving laterally in a second direction while lowering
the upper body one or more additional times. Moving laterally in
the first direction and moving laterally in the second direction
may accordingly rotate the pivoting arm assembly in a first
horizontal direction and a second horizontal direction.
Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention
will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon
examination of the following figures and detailed description. It
is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and
advantages be included within this description, be within the scope
of the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale,
emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of
the invention. In the figures, like reference numerals designate
corresponding parts throughout the different views.
FIG. 1A is a side perspective view of an exemplary change of
direction machine;
FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an exemplary support structure of
a change of direction machine;
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an exemplary arm assembly of a
change of direction machine;
FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an exemplary locking mechanism and
tension adjuster of a change of direction machine;
FIG. 2C is a perspective view of an exemplary locking mechanism and
tension adjuster of a change of direction machine;
FIG. 2D is a perspective view of an exemplary locking mechanism and
tension adjuster of a change of direction machine;
FIG. 2E is a perspective view of an exemplary locking mechanism and
tension adjuster of a change of direction machine;
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an exemplary tension adjuster of a
change of direction machine in operation;
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an exemplary tension adjuster of a
change of direction machine in operation;
FIG. 3C is a perspective view of an exemplary tension adjuster and
return mechanism of a change of direction machine in operation;
FIG. 3D is a perspective view of an exemplary tension adjuster and
return mechanism of a change of direction machine in operation;
FIG. 3E is a perspective view of an exemplary tension adjuster of a
change of direction machine;
FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of an exemplary engagement end of
a arm assembly;
FIG. 4B is a perspective view of an exemplary engagement end of a
arm assembly;
FIG. 4C is a perspective view of an exemplary engagement end of a
arm assembly;
FIG. 4D is a perspective view of an exemplary pivoting engagement
end of an arm assembly;
FIG. 4E is a perspective view of an exemplary pivoting engagement
end of an arm assembly;
FIG. 4F is a perspective view of an exemplary adjustable engagement
end of an arm assembly;
FIG. 4G is a perspective view of an exemplary adjustable engagement
end of an arm assembly;
FIGS. 5A-5C are side views illustrating exemplary use of a change
of direction machine;
FIGS. 6A-6C are top views illustrating exemplary use of a change of
direction machine;
FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an exemplary arm assembly with
fixed weights;
FIG. 7B is a perspective view of an exemplary arm assembly with
fixed weights.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a change
of direction machine;
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a change
of direction machine;
FIG. 10A is a perspective view illustrating exemplary use of an
alternate embodiment of a change of direction machine;
FIG. 10B is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a
pivot and locking mechanism of a change of direction machine;
FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary use of an
alternate embodiment of a change of direction machine;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary use of an
alternate embodiment of a change of direction machine with calf
block extended;
FIGS. 13A and 13B are side views illustrating exemplary use of an
alternate embodiment of a change of direction machine;
FIGS. 14A and 14B are side views illustrating exemplary use of an
alternate embodiment of a change of direction machine; and
FIGS. 15A through 15C are top views illustrating exemplary use of
an alternate embodiment of a change of direction machine.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
In the following description, numerous specific details are set
forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the
present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in
the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these
specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
In general, the change of direction machine herein provides a
resistance which enhances the effectiveness of squats. The
resistance may be applied to a user's upper body like the force
provided by weights used with traditional squats. The change of
direction machine's resistance is unique however in that it moves
with the user's body during squats. In this manner, the change of
direction machine conforms to the user's natural body movements.
This allows effective training while greatly reducing the risk of
injury.
Whereas traditional squats using free weights may be difficult for
beginners to perform, the structure and design of the present
invention allows even the non-accomplished and non-experienced
users to perform weight lifting, and other related or similar
exercises, safely and effectively. This is highly advantageous in
that it is exceedingly difficult to maintain proper, let alone,
perfect form as one becomes fatigued from training during
traditional weight lifting exercises. This is especially so with
traditional squats with free weights. In addition, as the user
becomes fatigued, the risk of injury increases because the user
lacks the strength to maintain proper form. Good form and proper
performance are more easily and readily attained through use of the
present invention, and the user can more readily train for longer
periods of time using the present invention.
The change of direction machine may allow hands free operation in
one or more embodiments. That is, unlike in traditional squats, the
user need not hold one or more weights during training. This
reduces fatigue allowing the user to focus his or her energy on
lower body training. In addition, the change of direction machine
is safer because the risks associated with dropping or falling
weights are eliminated. Moreover, the change of direction machine
is also more convenient in that the user may perform squats without
the need for an assistant or spotter.
For these and other reasons (which are disclosed below), the change
of direction machine provides "ergomechanics" which improve the
ergonomic comfort and convenience for the user while also providing
enhanced training and better results for the user.
In one or more embodiments, the change of direction machine may be
configured to allow performance of one or more enhanced squats. In
general, the enhanced squats have a much larger range of motion
than traditional squats, and have greatly reduced risk of injury.
For instance, as will be described further below, the resistance
provided by the change of direction machine allows for one or more
enhanced squats including a wide range of lateral motions to be
performed. The ability to make these motions quickly and with
strength is highly beneficial to building lower body muscles as
well as to improve speed and agility in sports such as tennis and
basketball, among others.
Referring to FIG. 1A, the change of direction machine comprises a
support assembly 104 and an arm assembly 108. The support assembly
104 is generally configured to support or hold one or more elements
of the change of direction machine. In one or more embodiments, the
support assembly 104 may be configured to provide a stable base for
the change of direction machine and to position the arm assembly
108 at an elevated position for use.
In one embodiment, the support assembly 104 may comprise a
structure to support the elements of the change of direction
machine. As can be seen in FIG. 1A for example, the support
assembly 104 is configured as a frame 116 which holds the arm
assembly 108 and other components of the change of direction
machine. As can also be seen, the support assembly 104 is
configured to provide a base which holds the arm assembly 108
stably even though the arm assembly extends or cantilevers outward
from its attachment point to the base. It is contemplated that the
support assembly 104 may be secured to the ground, a wall, or other
structure to improve stability if desired.
The arm assembly 108 may be held or supported at various
elevations. For example, as shown, the arm assembly 108 is elevated
between 5 and 6 feet off the ground. Of course, other heights are
possible. In one embodiment, the arm assembly 108 may be at or near
% of a user's height. In another embodiment, the arm assembly 108
may be at or near the level of a user's shoulders. The arm assembly
108 may be fixed at a elevation or may be adjusted to be secured at
various elevations, as will be described further below.
The support assembly 104 may have a low center of gravity in one or
more embodiments to allow the arm assembly 108 to extend therefrom
without causing the change of direction machine to tip or become
unstable, especially when the machine is in use. In addition, the
support assembly may be relatively compact in one or more
embodiments. This provides a space around the change of direction
machine in which a user can move freely. For example, a user may
engage the arm assembly 108 and move around the support assembly
104 without risk of contacting the support assembly while
training.
The arm assembly 108 may be configured in a variety of ways. In one
embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, and more particularly in FIGS. 2A
through 2E, the arm assembly 108 comprises a cantilever 124
attached at a pivoting end 136 to the support assembly 104 by a
pivot 120. The user may engage the arm assembly 108 at an
engagement end 140 of the arm assembly 108. One or more pads 128
may be at the second end of the arm assembly 108 to allow a user to
comfortably engage the arm assembly.
The pivot 120 may be configured to allow the engagement end 140 of
the arm assembly 108 to move in a variety of directions. For
instance, the arm assembly 108 may be moved horizontally,
vertically, or both in one or more embodiments. This is highly
advantageous in that it permits a variety of training to be
performed on the change of direction machine. For example, a
traditional squat may be performed by lifting and lowering the arm
assembly 108 vertically. The change of direction machine also
allows enhanced squats to be performed. For example, an enhanced
squat may be performed by lifting and lowering the arm assembly 108
vertically while also moving in a lateral direction, as will be
described further below.
The pivot 120 may be various structures that allow the engagement
end 140 of the arm assembly 108 to be moved. In one or more
embodiments, the pivot 120 may be configured to allow movement
along multiple or any axis. As shown for example, the pivot 120 is
configured as a ball joint which allows the arm assembly 108 to be
moved along any axis. Alternatively, a universal joint may be used.
Of course, other unions may be used. For example, a single axis
joint such as a hinge joint may be used in some embodiments. The
hinge joint may be rotatably mounted to allow movement along more
than one axis. For example, the hinge joint may be coupled to
another hinge joint to allow movement along more than one axis.
An alternate embodiment of the arm assembly 108 can be seen on the
alternate embodiment change of direction machine shown in FIGS. 8
and 9, for example. Here, arm assembly 108 comprises a cantilever
124 attached to a connector bar 502 by way of a hinge 501 on one
end, and adjuster bar 503 on the other end. Connector bar 502 is
connected to support assembly 104 by way of a pivot 120, which, in
this alternate embodiment, is a hinge joint rotatably mounted to
allow movement along more than one axis. The detail of pivot 120
can be seen in FIG. 10A, and more particularly in FIG. 10B.
Referring to FIG. 10B, pivot 120 comprises a hinge 504 that is
attached to the connector bar 502. Hinge 504 is fitted through the
joint 505, which itself can turn or spin along its longitudinal
axis. As such, connector bar 502 (and correspondingly, cantilever
124 and assembly arm 108) can be moved in an upward or downward
direction as well as laterally in a left to right, or right to left
direction.
As can be seen, the position of the pivot 120 on the support
assembly 104 may determine the elevation or raised position of the
arm assembly 108. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the pivot 120
is positioned at the top of the support assembly 104. The position
of the pivot 120 on the support assembly 104 may be fixed or
adjustable according to various embodiments of the change of
direction machine. For example, the pivot 120 may be fixed at the
top of the support assembly 104 to give the arm assembly 108 a
fixed elevation.
Alternatively, the pivot 120 may be configured to be raised and
lowered to accordingly raise and lower the arm assembly 108. As
shown in FIG. 1A, the pivot 120 may be mounted to a pivot support
148 of the support assembly 104. The pivot support 148 may be
raised and lowered in one or more embodiments. It will be
understood that this may be accomplished in various ways. For
example, in FIG. 1B, the pivot support 148 comprises a sleeve and
tube structure where an outer sleeve 152 and inner tube 156 can
slide or move relative to one another to lengthen (i.e., raise) and
shorten (i.e., lower) the pivot support. Once at the desired
height, the sleeve 152 and inner tube 156 may be secured in
position relative to one another. For instance, in FIG. 1B, a pin
160 may be inserted through an opening of the sleeve 152 and inner
tube 156 to secure them. Of course, the sleeve 152 and inner tube
156 may be secured in other ways in addition to or instead of the
pin 160, such as by one or more clips, clamps, screws, or the
like.
Alternatively, in the alternative embodiment change of direction
machine shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, for example, the height of arm
assembly 108 can be adjusted in another manner. Here, referring to
FIGS. 9, 10A, and 10B, the height of the cantilever 124 is modified
by way of a pin 508 that is fitted through adjuster bar 503. Cable
507 is attached at one end to pin 508, and to handle 506 on the
other end (as can be seen more particularly in FIG. 9). When the
user applies pressure to handle 506, for example as shown in FIG.
10A, the pin 508 becomes disengaged from the adjuster bar 503, and
the user is then able to move cantilever 124 up or down, which
correspondingly increases or decreases, respectively, the relative
distance between cantilever 124 and connector bar 502, as well as
the overall height of arm assembly 108 relative to the ground. Once
the desired height of arm assembly 108 is achieved, the user
releases the pressure from handle 506, which causes pin 508 to
reengage with adjuster bar 508, thus locking arm assembly 108 at
the desired height.
The ability for the arm assembly 108 to be raised and lowered is
advantageous in that it allows users of various heights to use the
change of direction machine. In this manner, the change of
direction machine can accommodate taller as well as shorter users.
In addition, the arm assembly 108 can be positioned at or near the
level of the user's shoulders, whatever that may be, making it
easier for the user to engage the machine.
As described and discussed, the arm assembly 108 may comprise a
locking mechanism in one or more embodiments. In general, the
locking mechanism is used to secure the arm assembly 108 in place
when not in use. This is beneficial because the pivot 120 of the
arm assembly 108 would otherwise allow the arm assembly to move in
a variety of directions. To illustrate, in FIG. 1A, the arm
assembly 108 is locked in a substantially horizontal position. This
position may be achieved through use of the locking mechanism.
The locking mechanism is beneficial in that it positions the arm
assembly 108 in a convenient position. As can be seen in FIG. 1A,
the user can easily engage the engagement end 140 of the arm
assembly 108 in its locked position. Of course, the locking
mechanism may hold the arm assembly 108 in a variety of positions.
Typically, the arm assembly 108 will be held substantially
horizontal to allow the user to easily engage the arm assembly by
stepping into and/or under the pads 128. In this manner, the user
may engage the arm assembly 108 without having to first lift the
arm assembly.
The locking mechanism may be configured in various ways. In one
embodiment, a first portion of the locking mechanism may engage a
second portion of the locking mechanism to secure the arm assembly
108 in place. Once engaged, the first portion, second portion, or
both may physically hold the arm assembly 108 in place, or may
prevent certain movement(s) of the arm assembly.
Exemplary locking mechanisms are illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2E. FIG.
2A is a perspective view of the arm assembly 108 showing the
locking mechanism. In one or more embodiments, the locking
mechanism may comprise a coupler 224. Of course a plurality of
couplers 224 may be used. To illustrate, the embodiment shown has
two couplers 224 with a coupler on each side of the arm assembly
108. The coupler 224 may comprise two separate structures that
engage to secure the arm assembly 108 in place. For example, the
coupler 224 may comprise a stop 220 that may be engaged by a
locking member 204 to secure an arm assembly 108 in place. When
engaged, physical contact between the stop 220 and locking member
204 may prevent undesired movement of the arm assembly 108.
In one or more embodiments, the locking member 204 may be attached
to the arm assembly while the stop 220 may be attached to the
support assembly 104. In this manner, when engaged, the coupler 224
secures the arm assembly 108 in position relative to the support
assembly 104. As can be seen, the locking member 204 is attached to
the arm assembly 108 and the stop 220 is attached to the support
assembly 104.
Referring to FIG. 2B, it can be seen that the end 212 of the
locking member 204 may have a shaped end in some embodiments. For
instance, in FIG. 2B, the end 212 has a square shape at one end.
This allows the locking member 204 to engage the planar stop 220 as
shown. The planar features of the locking member 204 and stop 220
are in close physical contact when engaged. This limits the motion
of the locking member 204 and the stop 220 relative to one another
and, in turn, limits the motion of the arm assembly 108.
Of course, the end 212 or other portion of the locking member 204
may be formed in various shapes. For example, the end may be round,
flat, rectangular, polygonal, or other shapes. The stop 220 may
have a corresponding shape to accept or engage the locking member
204. For example, the stop 220 may be curved or comprise a round
opening to accept or engage a round locking member to hold the arm
assembly 108 in position.
It is noted that the coupler 224 may allow some upward movement of
the arm assembly 108 even when the coupler is engaged. This is
beneficial in that it allows a user to engage the engagement end
140 of the arm assembly 108 and stand up straight without having to
first unlock the arm assembly by disengaging the coupler 224. To
illustrate, in FIG. 2B, the stop 220 is configured as a shelf-like
structure with an open area above. In this manner, the stop 220
prevents the arm assembly 108 (when locked) from moving downward,
but allows at least some upward movement. This allows the user to
stand up straight and brace him or herself to hold the arm assembly
108 before the arm assembly is unlocked.
The locking member 204 of the coupler 224 may be movable so as to
allow the locking member to engage and disengage the stop 220. This
may be achieved by one or more mounts 216 that allow the locking
member 204 to move to engage and disengage the stop 220. As shown
in FIG. 2B, the mount 216 comprises an open structure which allows
the locking member 204 to slide or move within the mount to engage
and disengage the stop 220. In FIG. 2B, the locking member 204 and
stop 220 have been engaged. As FIG. 2C shows, to disengage the stop
220, the locking member 204 may be slid or otherwise moved away
from the stop, releasing the arm assembly 108. It will be
understood that the mount 216 may be configured as various guides,
tracks, and the like to allow the locking member 204 to engage and
disengage the stop 220.
Referring back to FIG. 2A, the locking mechanism may provide one or
more handles 208 to allow the user to more easily use the locking
mechanism. It is noted that handles 208 may not be present in all
embodiments because the user may directly engage the locking
mechanism. If included, the handles 208 may be attached to the
locking members 204 such that they are located near or at the
engagement end 140 of the arm assembly 108 to allow the user to
conveniently access the handles. The locking members 204 may be
elongated in one or more embodiments, to allow the handles 208 to
be located near the user.
In operation, the user may grasp the handles 208 and move the
locking members 204 to engage the stop 220 (as shown in FIG. 2C) to
lock the arm assembly 108 in position. To release the arm assembly
108, the user may grasp the handles 208 and move the locking
members 204 to disengage the stop 220 (such as shown in FIG. 2C).
For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the user may grasp the
handles 208 and slide the locking members 204 forward to engage the
stop 220 and backward to disengage the stop 220. It is noted that
then handles 208 may be used for other purposes as well. For
instance, a user may grasp the handles during training to further
engage the arm assembly 108 as will be described further below.
The locking mechanism may have locking members 204 which share a
common end 212 in some embodiments. For instance, as shown in FIG.
2D, the locking members 204 are linked at a shared end 212. The end
212 may be configured as discussed above to lock the arm assembly
108 in position. Alternatively, the end 212 may have a rotatable
portion which engages a stop 220 to hold the arm assembly 108 in
position.
One such embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 2D. As can be seen, the
end 212 may comprise a roller 224 which rolls to engage a stop 220.
In the embodiment of FIG. 2D the roller 224 wedges itself between
the stop 220 and the arm assembly 108 as the locking members 204
are moved to lock the arm assembly in position. The roller 224 is
circular in shape and may rotate about an axle. The roller 224 may
optionally have one or more grooves, such as shown, to fit tightly
between the arm assembly 108 and stop 220. It is contemplated that
the roller 224 may be formed from rubber, plastic, wood, metal, or
other rigid or semi-rigid material in one or more embodiments. In
FIG. 2D for example, the groove 232 in the roller 224 allows the
roller to accommodate a rounded portion of the arm assembly 108
adjacent the stop 220.
In one or more embodiments, the stop 220 may have a flange 236 or
angled portion, such as shown in FIG. 2D. This is beneficial in
that it provides an expanded area for accepting the roller. As can
be seen, the flange 236 may be angled downward and/or away from the
arm assembly 108 to provide a larger distance between the arm
assembly and the stop 220. In this manner, the roller 224 may be
guided "into" a tighter or smaller area between the stop 220 and
the arm assembly 108 by the flange 236 to lock the roller and thus
the arm assembly 108 in position. It is noted that a flange 236
need not be provided in all embodiments as the roller 224 may
engage the stop 220 without the flange. In an alternate embodiment,
rather than including a flange 236, the stop 220 itself may be
angled away from the arm assembly 108.
The roller 224 may be disengaged from the stop 220 by moving the
roller away from the stop such as shown in FIG. 2D. As discussed
above, this may be accomplished via handles of the locking members
204. Once disengaged the arm assembly 108 may be moved to perform
one or more exercises.
In general, the arm assembly 108 provides a resistance to the
user's movements during training. This is highly beneficial in that
it enhances the strengthening and toning of the user's muscles
during training. The resistance may comprise a force applied to the
user by the arm assembly 108. The resistance may be directed along
various force vectors. Typically, the resistance will be along a
downward force vector and may be at various angles. Accordingly,
this allows the arm assembly 108 to provide a resistance having a
downward force vector to the user.
Various resistance devices may be used to generate this resistance.
In fact, it is contemplated that any device configured to provide a
downward force through the arm assembly 108 may be used. For
example, one or more weights may be coupled or attached to the arm
assembly 108 to provide the downward force, such as shown in FIGS.
7A-7B. As can be seen a support or mount for one or more weights
708 may be used to attach the weights to a portion of the arm
assembly 108. For instance, one or more bars 704 or the like may
extend from the arm assembly 108 to hold one or more weights 708.
As shown, the weights 708 are held at the engagement end 140 of the
arm assembly 108, however, it is contemplated that the weights may
be at various positions along the arm assembly. It is contemplated
that weights 708 may be removed and replaced as desired to provide
the desired amount of resistance.
In another example of the alternate embodiment change of direction
machine shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a weight stack or weight stack
assembly may be coupled with the arm assembly 108. For example, one
or more pulleys may be used to guide a cable of the weight stack to
the arm assembly 108 such that a downward force is provided (e.g.,
the cable approaches the arm assembly from below the arm assembly).
Typically, a resistance device will be connected to the arm
assembly 108 at the arm assembly's cantilever 124. In the alternate
embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a cable 510 is attached to one
end of connector bar 502 by way of connector 511. Cable 510 runs
around pulley 509 and connects to the weight stack assembly 514. It
is contemplated that the change of direction machine shown in FIGS.
8 and 9 may be modified to form an alternate embodiment such that
free weights may be used instead of a weight stack. This can be
accomplished by, for example, the use of bull horns being affixed
to either or both sides of a head plate, which is then affixed to
the end of cable 510. Free weights, in multiple combinations of
weight, may then be hung on (and readily removed from) either or
both sides of the head plate in order to create variable
resistance.
As can be seen from FIG. 1A, the resistance device may comprise one
or more springs 112. As can be seen, the spring 112 may be attached
between the arm assembly 108 and the support assembly 104. A first
end 132 of the spring 112 may be attached to the cantilever 124
while a second end 132 of the spring may be attached to the support
assembly 104 such that the second end 132 of the spring is below
the first end 132. In this manner, the spring 112 stretches and
thus provides resistance as the arm assembly 108 is moved upward.
In other words, the spring 112 provides a downward force through
the arm assembly 108. It is noted that though described herein with
reference to one or more springs 112, other similar resistance
devices may be used in this manner. For example, one or more
elastic bands may be used instead or in addition to springs.
Springs 112 (or elastic bands) are beneficial in that they may be
used to provide variable resistance. A spring 108 is advantageous
because it may provide variable resistance in one or more
embodiments. Generally, a variable resistance is one that may
increase or decrease as it is moved or stretched. For example, as
the spring 112 is stretched, the amount of resistance it provides
may increase. In contrast, a fixed resistance, such as a weight,
remains constant as it is moved.
A user's strength may vary along a strength curve. For example, the
strength of a muscle may increase as it contracts. In addition, the
body's skeletal structure contains many fulcrum and lever
structures (e.g., arms, legs, and their joints) that can make a
resistance more or less easy to move depending on the position of
these structures. In contrast to a fixed resistance, a variable
resistance, in one or more embodiments, may increase with the
body's strength curve. Though this is advantageous, it will be
understood that the change of direction machine may be used with
fixed resistance devices, such as the weights described above.
The amount of resistance provided may be adjustable in one or more
embodiments. Adjustment of resistance may occur in a variety of
ways. For example, the user may increase the amount of weight
coupled with the arm assembly in some embodiments. In other
embodiments, the user may replace one or more springs 112 or
elastic bands with other spring(s) or elastic band(s) to adjust
resistance. Alternatively or in addition, springs 112 or elastic
bands may be added to increase resistance and removed to decrease
resistance.
In embodiments using springs 112 or the like, the change of
direction machine may include elements or to adjust the resistance
provided. For example, the arm assembly 108, support assembly 104,
or both may be configured to adjust the resistance. This may occur
in a variety of ways. To illustrate, the arm assembly 108, support
assembly 104, or both may have components or structures which
increase the tension on the change of direction machine's springs
112. In this manner, the amount of resistance provided by the
springs 112 is increased. Likewise, the arm assembly 108, support
assembly 104, or both may be used to decrease such tension to
correspondingly decrease the amount of resistance provided.
For instance, the embodiment of FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary
arm assembly 108 comprising a tension adjuster 144 that may be used
to increase or decrease tension on one or more springs 112. In
general, the tension adjuster 144 increases tension by elongating
the spring 112 and decreases tension by allowing the spring to
contract. It is noted that some tension may always be on the spring
112 so that resistance is immediately provided to a user during
training.
In one or more embodiments, a spring 112 may provide a substantial
force. It is contemplated that several hundred pounds of force may
be generated in some embodiments (though other amounts of force may
also be generated). In these embodiments, manually adjusting the
tension of the spring 112 may be difficult if not impossible. In
addition, adjustment of the tension could be dangerous given the
forces generated by the spring 112. Therefore, the tension adjuster
144 may be configured to assist a user in adjusting the tension.
This is highly beneficial in that it allows easy and safe
adjustment of tension. In addition, in some embodiments, tension
adjuster 144 may have one or more set locations or positions. This
allows the user to set the resistance to a set level consistently.
It is contemplated that the tension adjuster 144 may have one or
more indicators (e.g., labels) associated with its set positions
which indicate how much tension or force would be provided by the
change of direction machine if the tension adjuster 144 were moved
to a particular position. This is beneficial in that the amount of
tension of force may not be readily apparent when using springs
112, elastic bands, or the like.
In one or more embodiments, the tension adjuster 144 may be movable
along the arm assembly 108 to allow tension adjustments of the
spring 112 and may be secured in place once the desired tension is
achieved. As shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, the tension adjuster 144 may be
moved from one position to another to increase or decrease the
tension. In FIGS. 3A and 3C, a first tension is provided, while in
FIGS. 3B and 3D an increased tension is provided by moving the
tension adjuster 144 to increase the tension on the spring. As can
be seen, various tensions may be generated by positioning the
tension adjuster 144 at various locations along the arm assembly
108.
The tension adjuster 144 may have various configurations. In one or
more embodiments, the tension adjuster 144 may comprise a body
configured to allow the tension adjuster to move along the arm
assembly 108, such as along a track of the arm assembly, and a
brake to hold the tension adjuster in position once the desired
amount of tension is achieved. To assist in moving the tension
adjuster 144, the tension adjuster may comprise a ratcheting
mechanism in one or more embodiments. In these embodiments, the
ratcheting mechanism may also provide a braking or locking function
which holds the tension adjuster 144 in position.
The arm assembly 108 may comprise a track 304 in one or more
embodiments. The track 304 may be configured to guide the tension
adjuster 144 as the tension adjuster is moved. For example, the
track 304 may be an elongated structure between the pivoting end
136 and the engagement end 140 of the arm assembly 108. In this
manner, the track 304 allows the tension adjuster 144 to move along
the arm assembly 108 between the pivoting end 136 and the
engagement end 140. The track 304 may be a separate structure or
may be integrally formed with another component of the arm assembly
108. For example, as shown in FIG. 3E, the track 304 has been
integrally formed with the cantilever 124 of the arm assembly
108.
The track 304 may also comprise one or more features which allow
the tension adjuster 144 to be moved along the track and/or be
secured in position. For example, in FIG. 3E, the track comprises a
series of indentations 308 that aid in moving the tension adjuster
144 and in securing the tension adjuster in place, as will be
described further below. Of course indentations 308 need not be
provided in all embodiments. It is contemplated that the tension
adjuster 144 may operate on a smooth track 304 in some embodiments.
Alternatively, the indentations 308 may be various other
structures. For example, the track 304 may comprise a series of
openings. The track 304 may also or alternatively include a rough
surface to increase friction between the track and the tension
adjuster 144. This allows the tension adjuster 144 to have
sufficient "traction" to both elongate the springs 112 and be
secured in position.
FIG. 3E illustrates an embodiment of the tension adjuster 144
comprising a body 312 having a ratcheting mechanism. As can be
seen, the body 312 is configured to ride along a track 304 that has
been integrally formed into the cantilever 124 of the arm assembly
108. The tension adjuster 144 may include a handle 316 that the
user may use to move the tension adjuster. In one or more
embodiments, the handle 316 may be coupled with the ratcheting
mechanism such that actuating the handle 316 causes the tension
adjuster 144 to move.
For example, in FIG. 3E, the handle 316 may be actuated about a
pivot 324. This causes a gear or finger of the ratcheting mechanism
to engage at least one of the indentations 308 of the track 304.
The force applied to the handle 316 may then be transferred via the
gear or finger to the track 304 causing the tension adjuster 144 to
move. Because the handle 316 may function as a lever, the user's
force is amplified thus making it easier (and safer) to move the
ratcheting mechanism and adjust the tension on the springs 112.
In one or more embodiments, the handle 316 may be moved to a
locking position once the tension adjuster 144 has reached the
desired position. In one or more embodiments, placing the handle
316 in the locking position causes the gear or finger to be locked
in position relative to the track, thus securing the tension
adjuster in position. In FIG. 3E, the handle 316 is illustrated in
a locked position. As can be seen, the locked position is one where
the handle 316 is pushed (or pulled) forward to engage a stop 328.
A release 320 coupled with the ratcheting mechanism may be provided
to release the handle 316 from its locked position. For example,
actuating the release 320 may release the handle 316 such that the
handle may once again be actuated to move the tension adjuster
144.
The ratcheting mechanism may be configured to move the tension
adjuster 144 in one direction. For instance, the ratcheting
mechanism may be configured to move the tension adjuster 144 away
from the pivoting end 136 of the arm assembly 108 in one or more
embodiments. The ratcheting mechanism may also be configured to
move the tension adjuster in multiple directions. For instance,
actuating the handle 316 towards the engagement end 140 of the arm
assembly 108 may cause the tension adjuster 144 to move towards the
engagement end while actuating the handle towards the pivoting end
of the arm assembly causes the tension adjuster to move towards the
pivoting end, or vice versa.
In embodiments where the ratcheting assembly is configured to move
the tension adjuster 144 in one direction along a track, it is
contemplated that an additional ratcheting assembly (oriented in
the opposite direction) may be provided to allow movement in the
opposite direction. In this manner, a first handle 316 may be
actuated to move the tension adjuster 144 in one direction while a
second handle may be actuated to move the tension adjuster in the
opposite direction. Either or both handles may be move to their
respective locked positions to secure the tension adjuster 144 in
position.
The tension assembly 144 may move freely in one direction in some
embodiments. For example, in some embodiments the tension assembly
144 may "ratchet" towards the engagement end 136 of the arm
assembly 108 and be secured in position when the desired tension is
achieved. If released from this position, the tension adjuster 144
may then freely move in the opposite direction towards the pivoting
end 136 of the arm assembly. This is advantageous because the
ratcheting assembly is used to move the tension adjuster 144 in the
direction which increases tension on the springs 112.
In addition to the ratcheting mechanism described above, various
other mechanisms may be used to move or help move the tension
adjuster 144 towards the pivoting end 136 of the arm assembly. This
returns the tension adjuster 144 to a position of lowered or low
tension. Such return mechanisms may provide a force which pushes or
pulls the tension adjuster 144 towards the pivoting end 136. It is
contemplated that the return mechanisms may be electrically powered
or motorized in one or more embodiments. For example, a gear or
other drive mechanism coupled to the tension adjuster 144 may move
the tension adjuster when energized or otherwise powered up.
Return mechanisms are beneficial in overcoming friction between the
tension adjuster 144 and the track 304 or other portion of the arm
assembly. For example, given the downward force applied by the
spring 112, it may be difficult to move the tension adjuster 144
toward the pivoting end 136. The force provided by the return
mechanisms thus allows the tension adjuster 144 to be easily moved
or returned to a position nearer the pivoting end 136 where the
force provided by the change of direction machine is lower.
FIGS. 3C-3D illustrate an exemplary return mechanism that may be
used to move the tension adjuster 144 towards the pivoting end 136.
As can be seen, the return mechanism may comprise one or more
resilient members 304 which attach to the tension adjuster 144 via
a connector 312. The resilient members 304 may be attached to the
top, bottom, or one or both sides of the tension adjuster 144. This
attachment or connection between a resilient member 304 and tension
adjuster 144 allows the resilient member to apply a force to the
tension adjuster which helps move or moves the tension adjuster.
The resilient member 304 may be a resiliently stretchable device or
material, such as a spring or elastic band.
In one or more embodiments, the resilient member 304 may be
attached to the tension adjuster 144 through a cable 308 or other
connecting structure. In the case of a cable 308, a pulley 312 or
other cable guide (e.g., a channel, hole, or conduit) may be used
to guide the cable from the tension adjuster 144 to the resilient
member 304. This is beneficial where the tension adjuster 144 and
resilient member 304 are at an angle to one another. As seen in
FIGS. 3C-3D for example, the pulley 312 directs the cable 308 from
the tension adjuster 144 to the resilient member 304 at an
angle.
As shown in FIG. 3D, as the tension adjuster 144 is moved away from
the pivoting end 136 and towards the engagement end 140, the
resilient member 304 may be elongated or stretched. This in turn
causes the resilient member 304 to apply a force in the opposite
direction that, if not opposed, would return the tension adjuster
144 to a position nearer the pivoting end 136, such as shown in
FIG. 3C.
As stated, the tension adjuster 144 may be various structures or
devices which allow the amount of force provided by the change of
direction machine to be adjusted. Thus, the tension adjuster 144
need not utilize a ratcheting mechanism in all embodiments. For
example, the tension adjuster 144 may comprise a body configured to
accept a threaded rod of the tension adjuster's track. In this
manner, the tension adjuster 144 may be moved by turning the
threaded rod. Because the threads of the threaded rod will
typically hold the tension adjuster 144 in place, the tension
adjuster need not be locked in position through additional actions
or structures. Of course, the tension adjuster 144 may be locked in
place by one or more clips, clamps, pins, or the like if desired.
Alternatively or in addition, the threaded rod may be locked in
place to lock the position of the tension adjuster 144. It is
contemplated that the threaded rod may be rotated manually or by a
motor in one or more embodiments.
Though shown as part of an arm assembly 108, it will be understood
that the tension adjuster may be part of the support assembly 104,
or other portions of the change of direction machine. For example,
the change of direction machine may comprise a tension adjuster and
associated track on the support assembly 104. In one embodiment,
this tension adjuster elongates the springs by moving one end of
the springs downward.
The engagement end 140 of the arm assembly 108 will now be
described with regard to FIG. 4A. In general, the engagement end
140 of the arm assembly 108 is configured to accept a user's
shoulders during training. In one or more embodiments, the arm
assembly 108 may comprise one or more pads 128 to engage the user's
shoulders. The pads 128 may be attached to the arm assembly 108 at
the engagement end 140 by various structures. For example, the pads
128 may be attached by a support 408. Typically, the support 408
will have a width sufficient to hold the pads 128 apart from one
another to engage a user's left and right shoulder. The pads 128
may be mounted rigidly to the support 408 or may be rotatably
mounted to the support in one or more embodiments. For instance, as
shown in FIG. 4A, the pads 128 have been rigidly mounted to the
support 408.
FIG. 4B illustrates an embodiment where the pads 128 have been
mounted to a rotating or pivoting support. This allows the pads 128
to conform to the motion of the user's shoulders. In addition, the
rotation of the pads 128 prevent the pads from pulling the user
inward as the arm assembly 108 moves downward. This is especially
beneficial where, such as shown, the pads 128 are shaped to curve
around the user's shoulders. In addition, this feature allows the
pads 128 to hold a user's shoulders and upper body in position such
that potentially injury causing forward and backward motions of the
upper body are prevented. In this manner, the user may raise and
lower his or her upper body in a substantially vertical direction
which provides training while greatly reducing the risk of injury.
In addition, the rigid structure of the arm assembly 108 helps keep
the user's upper body at a fixed distance from the support assembly
104 which also limits forward and backward movement of the user's
upper body.
Rotation of the pads 128 may be achieved in a variety of ways. For
example, the pads 128 may be mounted to a hinge or a pivot 404 in
one or more embodiments. It is contemplated that rotation may be
limited to certain directions in some embodiments. For example, if
mounted to a hinge, rotation would generally be limited to one
direction. Of course, the pads 128 may rotate in any direction in
other embodiments. For example, a pivot 404 comprising a universal
joint or a ball and socket joint may be used to allow rotation in a
variety of directions.
The embodiment of FIG. 4B shows a pad 128 mounted in a rotatable
fashion by a pivot 404 and a rotation limiter 412. In general, the
pivot 404 rotatably mounts the pad 128 to the support 408 while the
rotation limiter 412 prevents the pad from certain movements. In
the embodiment shown, the rotation limiter 412 is configured to
limit lateral rotation of the pad 128.
The pivot 404 shown comprises a ball 416 and a socket 420. The ball
416 may be attached to the pad 128 while the socket 420 may be
attached to the support 408. A support member 424 may be used to
attach the socket 420 to the support 408. The support member 424
may be an elongated member, such as shown.
In general, the rotation limiter 412 operates by physically
blocking certain movements of the pad 128. For example, in FIG. 4B,
the rotation limiter 412 comprises bars which limit the lateral or
side-to-side motion of the pad 128 by coming into contact with the
support member 424 when the pad rotates laterally. In one or more
embodiments, the rotation limiter 412 may loop around the support
member 424 such as shown.
As can be seen, though lateral movement is limited, the rotation
limiter 412 allows forward and backward rotation of the pad 128. In
this manner, the rotation limiter 412 may be thought of as a guide
for the forward and backward rotation of the pad 128. The bars of
the rotation limiter 412 may be configured such that they do not
block the forward and backward rotation of the pad 128. For
example, in the embodiment shown, the rotation limiter 412 extends
upward from the pad 128 to allow the support member 424 to move up
and down freely within the rotation limiter.
In one or more embodiments, the position of the pads 128 relative
to the support 408 may be adjustable. FIG. 4C illustrates an
embodiment where the pads 128 can be adjusted laterally. In this
manner, the pads 128 may be moved closer together or farther apart
as desired. This is beneficial in that it allows a variety of users
to be accommodated by the pads 128. For example, users with broader
shoulders may move the pads 128 away from one another while users
with narrower shoulders may move the pads towards one another.
Adjustment of the pads 128 may occur in various ways. In the
embodiment shown for example, the pads 128 may be mounted to the
support 408 with adjustable support members 424. An adjustable
support member 424 may comprise a sleeve 428 which is movable along
a member of the support 408. In FIG. 4C, the sleeve 428 is movable
along a horizontal member of the support 408. This member is
generally perpendicular to the user's shoulders and thus allows the
pads 128 to be moved to engage a user's shoulders as desired.
It is contemplated that, once in the desired position, the pads 128
may be secured in position. For example, one or more pins 432 may
be inserted into an opening of the sleeve 428 and into the
horizontal member of the support 408 to secure the pad 128 in
position. As shown, the pins 432 are spring loaded such that they
bias towards the horizontal member. In this manner, the pins 432
may automatically insert themselves into an opening of the
horizontal member once positioned over such an opening. Of course,
other structures or devices may be used to secure the pad 128 in
position. For example, the sleeve 428, support member 424, or both
may be secured by one or more clips, clamps, screws, or the
like.
It is contemplated that the engagement end 140 of the arm assembly
108 may be adjustable in one or more embodiments. For instance, as
shown in FIG. 4D, the engagement end 140 may pivot upwards or
downwards, such as to accommodate various user preferences or to
accommodate users of various sizes. Once moved to a desired
position, the support 408 of the engagement end 140 may be locked
in position for use and unlocked for subsequent readjustment.
A pivoting mount may be used to accomplish such pivoting. The
pivoting mount may have various configurations. In FIG. 4D for
instance, a rounded portion of the support 408 is held within a
sleeve 436 which allows the support 408 to rotate within the sleeve
436. Other structures may be used to accomplish such pivoting. For
example, a hinge or the like could be used.
Once pivoted to a desired position, the support 408 may be held in
position by one or more clips, clamps, screws, pins, or the like.
To reposition the support 408, these items may be released. It is
contemplated that other holding mechanisms may be used as well. For
instance, FIG. 4D illustrates a pivoting mount for the support 408
including a plate 444 configured to accept a pin 440 to hold the
support 408 and thus the engagement end 140 in a desired
position.
As can be seen, the plate 444 may have one or more openings 448 to
accept the pin 440. The pin 440 may be retractable, spring loaded,
or otherwise removable to release the support 408 allowing the
support to be positioned. The pin 440 may be reinserted into one of
the openings 448 to hold the support 408 in the desired position.
The openings 448 may be positioned in a circular arrangement, such
as shown, to allow each of the openings to align with the pin 440
when the support 408 is pivoting. The plate 444 itself may have a
curved shape or portion so as to avoid colliding with other
structures when the support 408 is pivoting.
The plate 444 may be attached to the sleeve 436 while the pin 440
is mounted to a portion of the support 408 (or vice versa). In this
manner, when the support 408 is pivoted the pin 440 and plate 444
move relative to one another. This allows the pin 440 to be aligned
with various of the one or more openings 448 in the plate 444. In
this manner, the support 408 may be secured by the pin 440 at a
variety of positions by inserting the pin into an aligned opening.
As shown in FIG. 4E, the pin 440 may be attached to a mount 452 so
as to position (i.e. align) the pin such that it may enter the one
or more openings of the plate 444. Of course, a mount 452 is not
required where the plate 444 and pin 440 can be properly positioned
relative to one another without a mount.
In addition or instead of pivoting, the engagement end 140 may be
height adjustable. For instance, the engagement end 140 may be
configured such that the support 408 may be raised and lowered as
desired and subsequently locked or secured in position. In addition
or instead of the capability to pivot, the height adjustability
allows the change of direction machine to accommodate users of
varying heights. In addition, the height adjustability allows users
to set the height of the support 408 according to their own
preferences.
FIGS. 4F-4G illustrate a height adjustment assembly. In general,
the height adjustment assembly comprises elements that can hold the
support 408 at various elevations. For instance, the height
adjustment assembly may comprise an elevating shaft 456 or other
member upon which the support 408 may be slideably mounted. In this
manner, the support 408 may be raised or lowered to a desired
position and then secured in place. Typically, the elevating shaft
456 will be in a substantially vertical or a vertical
orientation.
The elevating shaft 456 may be mounted to the arm assembly at the
engagement end 140, such as shown in FIGS. 4F-4G. The elevating
shaft 456 may be attached to the arm assembly in various ways. In
one embodiment, the elevating shaft 456 may be directly attached to
the arm assembly. Alternatively, the elevating shaft 456 may be
attached via one or more supporting structures. For example, as
shown, the elevating shaft 456 is attached to the arm assembly at
the engagement end 140 by a brace 460. The elevating shaft 456 may
be attached to the brace 460 at its ends in one or more
embodiments. This allows a sliding mount to move along the length
of the elevating shaft 456 without being encumbered by the brace
460. As can be seen, the brace 460 may be substantially the same
length as the elevating shaft 456. The brace 460 may also provide
structural reinforcement for the elevating shaft 456 which helps
the elevating shaft support the weight of the support 408.
The support 408 may be mounted to the elevating shaft 456 in
various ways. In the embodiment shown, the support 408 is also
attached to a pivoting mount to allow the support to pivot. It is
noted however, that the support 408 may be directly attached to the
height adjustment assembly. In such embodiments, the support 408
would be height adjustable but not pivotable.
A sliding mount may be provided to connect the support 408 to the
elevating shaft 456 such that the support may move vertically
relative to the elevating shaft. In one embodiment, the elevating
shaft 456 may function as a track for the sliding mount thereby
guiding as well as supporting the sliding mount. To illustrate, in
FIGS. 4F-4G, the sliding mount comprises a sleeve 464 which moves
along the elevating shaft 456.
It is contemplated that the elevating shaft 456, sliding mount, or
both may have features that make it easier for a user to raise and
lower the support 408. For example, the elevating shaft 456 may
have indentations, protrusions, ridges, or the like on its surface
that may be engaged by a gear. In this manner, turning the gear in
one direction or another raises or lowers the sliding mount and
support 408. The gear may be rotated manually. For example, as
shown, the sleeve 464 comprises a handle 468 that allows a user to
turn a gear to raise or lower the support 408. The handle 468 may
be coupled to the gear by a drive mechanism having its own gears,
linkages, or the like. It is noted that the gear may be rotated by
a motor in some embodiments.
Once the desired height or elevation for the support 408 is
achieved, the support may be held in place. For example, the gear
may be locked such that further rotation is prevented. In this
manner, the sleeve 464 and support 408 may be secured at a
particular height. The gear may be locked in various ways. For
example, a component coupled to the gear may prevent further
rotation of the gear. To illustrate, the handle or drive mechanism
may be held in place thus preventing the gear from rotating.
The support 408 may be secured in place in other ways as well. For
example, in FIGS. 4F-4G, it can be seen that a pin may be used to
"clamp" or hold the sleeve 464 and support 408 in place. The pin
may be mounted to the sleeve 464 in one or more embodiments. In one
embodiment, the pin may be threaded and held within a threaded
opening of the sleeve 464. The pin may then be turned to cause the
pin to move into the sleeve eventually contacting a portion of the
elevating shaft 456. The pin may then be tightened onto the
elevating shaft 456 to hold the sleeve 464 and support 408 in
place. The pin may then be loosened to release the support 408 for
further height adjustment.
It is noted that the pin need not be threaded in all embodiments.
It is contemplated that the pin may be inserted into or engage a
feature of the elevating shaft 456 to hold the support 408 in
position. For example, the pin may be inserted into one of a series
of openings on the elevating shaft 456. Alternatively, the pin may
engage an indentation, ridge, protrusion, or other structural
feature of the elevating shaft 456 to hold the support 408 in
position. The support 408 may be released for further height
adjustment by removing or disengaging the pin from the elevating
shaft 456.
Operation of the change of direction machine will now be described
with regard to FIGS. 5A-5C. To begin training, the user may "step
into" the change of direction machine such that the user's
shoulders engage the pads 128. As can be seen in FIG. 5 A, the arm
assembly 108 holds the pads 128 at an elevated position. In one or
more embodiments, the pads 128 may be held near or at the level of
the user's shoulders. In this manner, the user need only lower his
or her shoulders to engage the pads 128. This makes it easier for
the user to engage the pads 128 because the user does not have to
stoop or bend over an excessive amount. In addition, the user does
not have to lift the arm assembly 108 to place the arm assembly on
his or her shoulders. This is highly beneficial especially where
there is a resistance from the arm assembly 108 that would have to
be lifted onto the user's shoulders.
Alternatively, it is contemplated that the user need not lower his
or her shoulders to engage the change of direction machine. For
example, the user may "step into" the change of direction machine
and then lower the arm assembly 108 onto his or her shoulders, such
as by unlocking the arm assembly to allow the arm assembly to move
downward onto the user's shoulders.
In FIGS. 5B and 10A, the user has "stepped into" the change of
direction machine and engaged the arm assembly 108. Such engagement
may be achieved by the user engaging one or more pads 128 of the
arm assembly 108 by raising his or her shoulders. For example, the
user may stand up to engage the one or more pads 128 as shown. As
can be seen, the user may cause the arm assembly 108 to lift at
least slightly in this position. Also, in this position, the arm
assembly 108 elongates the springs 112 (or engages the weight stack
assembly 514), and thus resistance is applied to the user via the
arm assembly and pads 128. In this manner, resistance is
immediately applied to the user and the user continues to
experience the resistance during training.
Once the arm assembly 108 is engaged, the user may unlock the arm
assembly 108 to allow the arm assembly to move freely. Of course,
unlocking is not required where the arm assembly 108 is not locked
or does not include a locking mechanism. The arm assembly 108 may
be unlocked by disengaging the coupler of a locking mechanism as
described above. For example, referring to FIGS. 2A-2B, the user
may pull or otherwise move a locking member 204 away from its stop
220 to unlock the arm assembly 108, allowing the assembly to move
freely. If handles 208 are provided, the user may move the locking
member 204 through the handles.
In the alternative embodiment change of direction machine shown in
FIGS. 8 and 9, the user may adjust the height of arm assembly 108
by engaging handle 506, in the manner described in greater detail
above.
It is noted that the stop 220, as shown in the devices illustrated
in FIG. 5B, may comprise an open top portion. This allows the arm
assembly 108 to move upwards even when locked. Thus, as shown in
FIG. 5B, when the user stands upright to engage the pads 128, the
arm assembly 108 may move upward even though it is locked. This
allows the user to engage the arm assembly 108, stand upright, and
prepare for training prior to unlocking the arm assembly.
The user may then perform one or more exercises. For example, the
user may perform one or more squats or one or more enhanced squats,
as will be described further below. In addition, it is contemplated
that the user may perform one or more other exercises. For example,
the user may perform calf extensions such as raising the heel end
of one or both of the user's feet. In the alternate embodiment
change of direction machine shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, weight stack
511 is connected to the connector bar 502 with cable 510 and
provides resistance to movement. A calf block 512 is included,
which can be raised when not in use (counterweights 513 can
optionally be included to assist the user in raising or lowering
the calf block 512). In use, the user can stand on calf block 512,
as shown in FIG. 12. The user can then perform calf extensions by
raising the heel of one or both of the user's feet.
To perform a squat, the user may start from an upright or standing
position, such as shown in FIG. 5B (and in FIG. 13A of the
alternative embodiment device). The user may then lower his or her
body by bending at the knees and waist such as shown in FIG. 5C
(and in FIG. 13B of the alternate embodiment device). As can be
seen, the resistance provided by the arm assembly 108 applies a
downward force on the user through the user's shoulders. Thus, when
lowering his or her body, the user must also resist the force of
the arm assembly 108. This helps strengthen and tone the user's
muscles, in particular, the user's leg muscles and gluteal muscles.
In addition, other surrounding body structures (e.g., bones,
tendons, and ligaments) or body structures associated with this
lowering of the user's body are strengthened and toned.
To complete the squat, the user may then raise his or her body back
to an upright position, such as that shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 13A.
In moving upward to an upright position, the user must overcome the
resistance applied by the arm assembly 108 through his or her
shoulders. In this manner, the resistance enhances the training of
the user's muscles during the upward motion. The upward motion
strengthens and tones the user's muscles and body structures as
described above.
As can be seen, the user need not grasp the arm assembly 108 during
training. This is because the one or more pads 128, pivot 120, and
downward force of the arm assembly 108 keep the arm assembly
engaged to the user's shoulders, even if the user tilts his or her
shoulders. This is beneficial because it frees the users hands for
other purposes. For example, the user may utilize his or her arms
and hands to stabilize his or her torso during training, such as by
placing his or her hands at or near his or her waist. Of course,
the user may grasp one or more handles of the arm assembly during
training, if provided, and if desired, such as described above.
In contrast to weights which need to be held in the user's hands or
balanced across the user's shoulders (e.g., across the user's
trapezius muscle of the user's back), the arm assembly 108 remains
engaged to the user without the use of the user's hands or the need
for balancing. This is highly advantageous over weights in that it
reduces the risk of injury, accidents, and the like. With weights
the user must support and balance while lifting and lowering his or
her body. This becomes increasingly difficult and increasingly
dangerous as the user becomes fatigued from training, especially
where the weights are substantial. In addition, with the change of
direction machine, the user does not have to exert energy to hold
or balance a weight. In this manner, the user's energy is focused
on the desired training and not on holding or balancing
weights.
Moreover, the arm assembly 108 provides a rigid structure which
allows up and down motion and lateral motion during training, while
keeping the user's upper body from moving forward or backward. For
instance, arm assembly 108 and the pads 128 (or other portion of
the engagement end 140) may "lock" a user's upper body in position
such that the upper body does not move or rotate forward or
backward. This prevents the user from becoming injured due to such
motion in contrast to traditional squats where the weights and
user's upper body are free to move forward or backward at the risk
of injury.
It is contemplated that the arm assembly 108 may be blocked from
moving below a certain point. Thus, if the user is unable to hold
the arm assembly 108 the user may lower his or her shoulders/body
downward to the lowest point of the arm assembly's range of motion.
The weight of the arm assembly is then held by the change of
direction machine's structure and the user may safely disengage the
arm assembly. This is highly beneficial in that it reduces the risk
of injury. With weights, the user would likely drop the weights
potentially injuring him or herself and/or nearby bystanders. In
fact, even if the user were to collapse the arm assembly 108 would
not fall onto the user and potentially cause impact injuries.
One or more cross bars or other members attached to the support
assembly may be provided to prevent the arm assembly's 108 from
moving below a certain point. In one embodiment, a safety bar may
be extend through an interior portion of the spring. As the arm
assembly 108 moves downward it may contact the safety bar
preventing further downward motion.
As stated, the arm assembly 108 has a wide range of motions which
allows a variety of training to be performed with the change of
direction machine. As shown in the overhead view of FIGS. 6A
through 6C (and in FIGS. 15A through 15C of the alternate
embodiment device), the arm assembly 108 may move in a horizontal
direction instead of or in addition to the vertical motion
illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C and 13A-13B. It is contemplated that the
user may exercise by moving laterally while engaged to the arm
assembly 108. As can be seen from FIGS. 6A-6C and 15A-15C, the
resistance from the arm assembly 108 continues to be applied to the
user even as the arm assembly moves laterally. Thus, it is
contemplated that the user may tone and strengthen his or her lower
body and torso muscles simply by stepping or otherwise moving
laterally while engaged to the arm assembly 108. This is because
the user must support the resistance of the arm assembly 108 while
moving.
One or more enhanced squats may be performed on the change of
direction machine. In one or more embodiments, an enhanced squat
may comprise a vertical motion and a horizontal motion performed by
the user's body. For example, the user may lower and raise his or
her body while moving in a lateral direction to perform an enhanced
squat, as shown in FIG. 11, which depicts such movement using the
alternate embodiment change of direction machine shown in FIGS. 8
and 9. This combined motion is highly beneficial because it
strengthens and tones muscles and other body structures used in
changing the direction of a user's body. For athletes and other
users, the ability to quickly and powerfully stop and/or change the
direction of one's body is highly advantageous. For instance, a
tennis player may need to quickly move in one direction for a
return and move in another direction for another return. In
basketball, a player may need to quickly change directions to avoid
or split defenses as well as to prevent quick players from
scoring.
Of course, any user may benefit from such training. The muscles and
body structures used to change directions (e.g. the muscles and
structures along the sides of the user's body and the interior of
the user's legs) are difficult to train. Traditional exercise
devices lack a pivoting arm assembly 108 or the equivalent to allow
this type of training. Use of free weights in this manner is
exceedingly dangerous and requires the user to exert energy to hold
and/or balance the weights. The change of direction machine allows
exercises involving changes of direction and enhances the
effectiveness of these exercises by applying a resistance to the
user.
The pivoting arm assembly 108 provides a wide range of motion while
the user is engaged to the arm assembly as can be seen from FIGS.
6A-6C and 15A-15C. This allows the user to move in a wide area
around the change of direction machine while experiencing the
resistance provided by the machine. This also allows training to be
enhanced by the resistance applied to the user through the arm
assembly 108. Thus, the user achieves results a great deal faster
with the change of direction machine.
In fact, the user is able to achieve results that would otherwise
be impossible. This is because the resistance provided by the arm
assembly 108 is applied to the user across a wide range of
movements around the change of direction machine. In other words,
the change of direction machine and its pivoting arm assembly 108
provides a combination of resistance and range of motion that a
user could not otherwise experience. In addition, as stated above,
the resistance provided by the arm assembly 108 may be increased to
a substantial amount, further enhancing the user's training with
the change of direction machine.
An enhanced squat will now be described with regard to FIGS. 5A-5C
and FIGS. 6A-6C, and FIGS. 13A-13B and FIGS. 15A-15C. The user may
"step into" the change of direction machine as shown in FIG. 5A and
engage the arm assembly 108 as shown in FIG. 5B. In one embodiment,
the arm assembly 108 may be perpendicular to the support assembly
104 as this is occurring, such as shown in FIG. 6A. Of course, the
arm assembly 108 may be at various angles. And, as already
described in greater detail above, the user of the alternate
embodiment device shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 may engage handle 506 to
easily and readily adjust the height of arm assembly 108, after
stepping into the alternate embodiment device, as shown in FIG.
13A.
Typically, the arm assembly 108 will be locked in position. Thus,
the user may unlock the arm assembly 108 if applicable prior to
training. As stated, this may occur by disengaging a coupler of an
arm assembly's locking mechanism. Once unlocked, the arm assembly
108 may move freely in a vertical direction as well as in a
horizontal direction.
To begin an enhanced squat, the user may step laterally with one
leg. The user may simultaneously lower his or her upper body by
bending at the knees and hips, such as shown in FIG. 5C and FIG.
13B. For example, the user may take a rightward step with his or
her right leg and lower his or her upper body to a squatting
position. As the user lowers his or her body, the arm assembly 108
is moved downward, as shown in FIG. 5C (and in FIG. 11 with respect
to the alternate embodiment device), and rightward as shown in FIG.
6C (and in FIGS. 11 and 15B). While in this "rightward" location,
the user may then raise his or her body and the arm assembly, such
as shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 13A. The user may then move one leg
towards his or her other leg to complete the lateral motion. In the
above example, the user may move his or her left leg towards his or
her right leg such that the user's feet are approximately shoulder
width apart.
As can be seen the structure of the arm assembly 108 holds the
user's upper body in position so that the upper body has limited
forward and backward movement. As discussed, this greatly reduces
the risk of injury when training, especially as compared to
traditional apparatus and methods. The arm assembly's structure may
position the user's upper body at a fixed distance away from the
support structure 104. Thus, even though the user may raise and
lower his or her upper body, move laterally, or do both, the user's
upper body motion in a forward-backward direction is limited
thereby increasing the user's safety.
The user may then perform one or more squats or one or more
additional enhanced squats. For example, the user may continue
moving leftward as indicated by the arrow of FIG. 6B, or the user
may move rightward if additional enhanced squats are desired. The
user may also stay in the same location and perform squats. If the
user desires to move leftward, he or she may repeat the motions
described above. It is contemplated that the user may continue
moving in one direction until the arm assembly 108 is parallel to
the support assembly 104 (or beyond) in one or more embodiments.
This allows motions in the same direction to be repeated several
times before the user must move in another direction, which is
advantageous to strengthening and toning the user's body for these
motions.
To move rightward, the user may begin from a position where his or
her feet are adjacent, such as a shoulder's width apart and step
with his or her right foot in a rightward direction while lowering
his or her upper body, such as shown in FIG. 5C and FIG. 13B. This
causes the arm assembly 108 to move rightward. For example, if the
user is located at the position shown in FIG. 6B (or FIG. 15C in
the alternate embodiment device), moving rightward may cause the
arm assembly 108 to be moved back to the position in FIG. 6A or
15A. The user may then raise his or her upper body to the position
shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 10A. The user may continue moving
rightward to the location shown in FIG. 6C (and FIGS. 11 and 15B),
may stay in the same location, or may change direction and move
leftward such as to the location shown in FIG. 6B or FIG. 15C. This
may be repeated as desired.
It can thus be seen that the user may rapidly alternate between
rightward and leftward motions to train the muscles and body
structures involved in changing direction. Likewise, the user may
also perform one or more repetitions in one direction and then
alternate to another direction to train these muscles and body
structures.
It is contemplated that the arm assembly 108 may be configured to
rotate 360 degrees around the support assembly 104 in one or more
embodiments. For example the resistance device, such as a spring or
elastic band, may be mounted to a rotating mount on the support
assembly 104. In this manner, the arm assembly 108 may be permitted
to rotate 360 degrees around the support assembly 104 while
continuing to provide resistance to the user. The user may then
perform as many enhanced squats in a leftward or rightward
direction as the user desires. The user also may engage in bounding
or jumping exercises, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, for
example.
In addition to the leg muscles and gluteal muscles trained by
squat-type exercises, the change of direction machine focuses
training on specific muscles used in performing changes of
direction. For example, muscles and body structures of the left and
right sides of the user may be toned and strengthened. For
instance, the inner and outer thigh muscles may be toned and
strengthened as well as the user's side abdominal muscles. This is
highly beneficial in that these muscles and associated body
structures are typically difficult to tone and strengthen. In
addition, the user's torso or core muscles and body structures may
also be toned and strengthened in support the resistance of the arm
assembly 108 while moving in a lateral direction.
While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it
will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many
more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within
the scope of this invention. In addition, the various features,
elements, and embodiments described herein may be claimed or
combined in any combination or arrangement.
* * * * *
References